A few days ago I was talking to my suitemate, Tomoko, about studying and living abroad. You see, she's a lot braver than I am. She's gone to an American college for four years now. When she came to America (she started at a two-year school in Hawaii along with my other, very brave, suitemate Aiko) she did not know a lot of English and began school with an intensive ESL (English as a Second Language) program. That means HOURS (I think about 6 or 7!!) of ESL all day. She also lived with a host family who wanted her [View Full Entry]

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My new dictionary arrived today! I have to say, I am AMAZED by the service of the company I bought it from. For anyone who is looking to buy an electronic Japanese dictionary, flashcards, or textbooks, I HIGHLY recomend www.whiterabbitpress.com. I placed my order last Friday and by Monday had an e-mail waiting assuring me thatmy order had been shipped and asking if I had any questions. I wrote back, "Yes, could you tell me when I should expect my dictionary?" and within 30 minutes a personalized reply came telling me it would be only 2-4 days!! I got it [View Full Entry]

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So, since I have just a couple months before departing for Japan, I'm beginning to collect for Omiyage　お土産 and Meibutsu 名物　now. The last time I went to Japan, I did this too, but I think I have an even better understanding of the custom, after having lived with Japanese roommates for so long. Food items and local items are best, and NEVER NEVER NEVER anything in even numbers (this is really bad luck!). I've talked a lot about the tradition with my roommates, and have been given many omiyage from them. Now, it's my turn to step up and participa [View Full Entry]

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I got the the letter of acceptance on April 3rd, 2007. I was actually afraid to read it or open it because I was all by myself and none of my suitemates were around! I was so afraid it would say I was an alternate - the WORST possibility! I'd rather know I had the position for sure or did not have it at all - in which case I planned to accept a job with NOVA, which I had already been offered (this is a similar, but less reputable program). But when I opened the letter and saw おめでとう！(Congratulations [View Full Entry]

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